Latest updates from top global and Saudi news sources
Last updated: 18 Jun 2026, 12:05 PM (Saudi time)
Saudi Arabia has begun early preparations for the 2027 Hajj, unveiling integrated service packages, a three-tier package structure that ends Package D, and mandatory training for Hajj office staff.
An exhibition in Makkah is displaying a rare wooden platform once used near the Black Stone to direct pilgrims during Tawaf, highlighting early crowd-management methods at the Grand Mosque.
Saudi Arabia's Makkah Route Initiative pre-cleared 388,694 pilgrims at 17 departure points in 10 countries during Hajj 2026, with Senegal and Brunei Darussalam joining the programme for the first time.
The Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites completed the second phase of its Arafat shading and cooling project, expanding covered areas fivefold to more than 272,000 square metres ahead of Hajj 2026.
Saudi Arabia deployed more than 39,000 trained volunteers across the holy sites, border crossings and pilgrim cities during Hajj 2026, coordinated through a unified digital command centre linking 16 organisations.
Saudi authorities announced the successful conclusion of the Hajj 2026 season, with more than 1.7 million pilgrims completing the rites at the holy sites. Preparations for the 1448 AH pilgrimage have already begun.
Muslim pilgrims converge on Mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia as the Hajj reaches its peak Click2Houston
Muslim pilgrims converge on Mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia as the Hajj reaches its peak KSAT
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Muslim pilgrims converge on Mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia as the Hajj reaches its pinnacle PBS
Muslim pilgrims converge on Mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia as the Hajj reaches its pinnacle PBS